Who Judge Brack is
Judge Brack enters the Tesmans' home as a well-dressed, worldly friend of the family. He speaks with Hedda in a light, knowing manner and seems to understand more than she would like.
He also brings news that unsettles the household's confidence in its future. His hints about the university post challenge Tesman's belief that a professorship is waiting for him.
What Judge Brack wants
Brack hopes to become very close to Hedda, and he quietly makes that wish known. He enjoys secrets and begins to recognise how her fear of scandal might serve his purposes.
Judge Brack and the others in the story
With Hedda, Brack combines easy conversation with an interest in her hidden fears. She longs for freedom but dreads gossip, a tension he is clever enough to notice.
He invites Jørgen Tesman and Eilert Løvborg to an evening party, bringing both scholars into his social circle. His place among these visitors makes him more than a casual observer of the household.
Questions
Who is Judge Brack in Hedda Gabler?
Judge Brack is a smooth, knowing family friend who takes a close interest in Hedda.
What does Judge Brack want from Hedda?
He wants a very close friendship with her. His awareness of her fear of scandal gives that wish an unsettling edge.
How does Judge Brack relate to Tesman?
Brack is a friend of the family and invites Tesman to a party. He also questions how certain Tesman's expected professorship really is.